A supposed appreciation party hosted by a government agency for its media partners turned into an unexpected brawl when two members of the Cagayan de Oro Press Club exchanged punches on Tuesday night, December 12.
The altercation, captured on a live video by journalist John Michael Bustamante, occurred outside the hotel venue and involved press club members Rene Abris and Popsy Yburan. The cause of the fight remains unclear, as both individuals have yet to issue a statement.
Requim Zuleta, one of the attendees, stepped in to break up the fight, expending considerable effort to stop the scuffle.
In response to the incident, Froilan Gallardo, president of the Cagayan de Oro Press Club (COPC), released an official apology.
"On behalf of the Club and its members in good standing, I humbly apologize for the said incident. We also apologize to the organizers, whose intention was to provide the media community with recognition," Gallardo stated.
He added that the incident brought great embarrassment to the COPC and the media community in Cagayan de Oro City. Gallardo assured the public that the organization would address the matter swiftly and provide a follow-up statement after a thorough review.
